RIFF’d: Mr. Mitch’s ‘Devout’

Mr. Mitch‘s Devout is precisely what the title suggests, a revelatory project that encapsulates his core values. He closely analyzes love, family and fatherhood; embracing the many challenges that have come with unwavering dedication. For the first time, the lauded London-area grime producer sings, which adds another shade to the vulnerability being embraced. And where he fails as a lyricist, he commissions his close contemporaries to speak for him.

Production-wise, Mr. Mitch adheres to a minimal, but highly emotive formula; never venturing too far from his safe space, a sonic approach that is both inviting and provocative. At first glance the emotional purging may seem the antithesis of grime, but Mr. Mitch handles it in such way that unchains the genre from overarching stereotypes; blurring lines using his life experience as a guide.

A pillow soft intro that asks simple, yet poignant questions. The warm, fuzzy synth and delicate melodies create a dreamlike sequence, a spectral stroll down memory lane. The voice of children in the background suggests that he’s asking his significant other to go back to a time where love was abundant, the fertile soil in which their offspring was born. A mystical beginning that can end anywhere: [LISTEN]

The little one has arrived, and the expectations are arriving in torrents. He’s prioritizing and finding that the presence of a child has only brought his efforts into sharper focus. It wasn’t easy, rife with life changes that he could have never imagined. The cavernous beat is haunted by a wailing child, representing the ubiquitous nature of kids. Baby steps toward fatherhood: [LISTEN]

When the honeymoon is over the real work begins. All of a sudden those soft, romantic moments alone are replaced by mommy and daddy duties, the grim realization that parenting is forever. Naturally the emotions wander, and questions of doubt arise on the daily. She’s feeling antsy and needs to channel her frustrations elsewhere. A tender soul realizing that love is a grind: [LISTEN]

Reassurance that no amount of star power will ever disrupt his love and affection. It’s a pivotal moment, one that in the end can make all the difference. Titles and accolades aside, the thing that matters most is the feeling of security; being there when life hits an inevitable rough patch. The plea comes off as desperate, as if his lifestyle is a far bigger deal than expected: [LISTEN]

Sweeping synths streak across the landscape, speaking for him where words fail. The basis is simple: a proclamation of undying loyalty. He’s willing to give his life over, a father inspired to be the man that the moment needs him to be. He’s not running from anything, ready to meet the responsibility head on. A simple, beautifully crafted ode full of love and devotion: [LISTEN]

Complete vulnerability, a moment of unrestrained exposure that projects ironclad loyalty. It’s frightening terrain, but yet another necessary moment in a relationship; being able to put your greatest insecurities in the hands of another. The minimal beat makes it an even more intimate affair; nowhere to run or hide, only two people madly in love with nothing but time on their hands: [LISTEN]

The percussion is hardwired, moving at an urgent pace. At any moment it sounds like he could loose his footing and tumble down in ruins. But he holds firm, never getting too high or too low. He’s expressing the anxieties that come with being a father, most importantly how to raise a good man in a world full of temptation. He’s being sensible and not getting caught up in the moment: [LISTEN]

A soft lullaby that captures the excitement that comes with being a father again. He’s praying to his unborn son, letting him know that the world is patiently waiting for him. The narrative is simple, but involves his entire family; creating a striking visual where love is the ultimate bond. Intimacy and joy stand at the center, a giant fire that keeps all his loved ones warm and safe: [LISTEN]

About Jeff Min

Jeff Min is a Chicago-based writer at SONGLYRICS. His work has appeared in the Chicago Sun-Times, Hi-Fructose, Wax Poetics, SLAM, and HOOP.